Izien Ovbiagele is a Nigerian and Filipino Toronto-based interdisciplinary artist, writer, photographer, poet, and mental health advocate whose work explores the intersections of culture, storytelling, and community care. Drawing inspiration from culture, nature, and vibrant palettes, her work explores themes of resilience, joy, identity, and cultural pride through visual storytelling and prose-poetry. Her creative roots are shaped by her early experiences living in Houston, Texas.
She has received recognition from UforChange’s film program (MVP Award, 2017) and completed the Arts Educator Apprenticeship with Voice of Purpose x Toronto District School Board. Her poetry has been featured in Lost In Translation (Artscape Youngplace), Ain’t I A Woman – I Am A Man (Design Exchange), Emancipation Arts’ Free Up (The Theatre Centre), Easy Period, Regent Park Newsletter, and Lakeshore Arts. In 2021, she joined Tarragon Theatre’s Young Playwright’s Unit Extended Cohort, bringing a compelling voice to contemporary storytelling. Izien is a proud alumna of Toronto Metropolitan University, holding an Honours Bachelor of Arts in Language and Intercultural Relations, along with a certificate in Business Communication from The Chang School at TMU.
After a meaningful creative pause, Izien continues to explore the intersections of creativity, community, and mental health. Through her work in healthcare, community-based initiatives, and the arts, she is passionate about creating spaces that prioritize accessibility, belonging, and human connection. Her multidisciplinary background continues to shape a purpose-driven practice rooted in storytelling, cultural understanding, and meaningful impact.